Home / Arts and Entertainment / Arnold's Gateway: Author Behind 'Pumping Iron' Dies at 84
Arnold's Gateway: Author Behind 'Pumping Iron' Dies at 84
22 Jul
Summary
- Author Charles Gaines, who co-wrote 'Pumping Iron,' has died at 84.
- The book and documentary launched Arnold Schwarzenegger's career.
- Gaines captured bodybuilding's essence as an 'ignored region.'
Charles Gaines, the author whose book and documentary "Pumping Iron" brought professional bodybuilding into the spotlight and introduced Arnold Schwarzenegger to the world, has died at age 84. Gaines, alongside George Butler, co-authored the 1974 book "Pumping Iron: The Art and Sport of Bodybuilding," describing it as a report from an "ignored region" of American life. This work later served as the basis for the 1977 documentary of the same name.
The "Pumping Iron" book and film highlighted the rivalry between Arnold Schwarzenegger and Lou Ferrigno, propelling Schwarzenegger to international fame. He leveraged this attention into successful careers in Hollywood and politics, serving as governor of California from 2003 to 2011. Gaines had a lifelong connection to bodybuilding, starting at age 16 and later writing about the sport as if it were an "unmapped" territory.
Gaines was a prolific writer, with other notable works including "Stay Hungry," which also featured Schwarzenegger's first movie role. His adventurous spirit and unique perspective influenced many, including Schwarzenegger, who credited Gaines with discovering him and the sport of bodybuilding. Gaines is survived by his wife and three children.
